Ensuring Inclusive Mobility: A Mandate for Change

The Mexico City Metro (Sistema de Transporte Colectivo, STC) is set to undergo a significant change to enhance accessibility for passengers with motor disabilities.This thorough upgrade comes as an inevitable result of a judicial order issued by the Tenth Collegiate Court in Administrative matters of the First Circuit of Mexico City, compelling the adaptation of all 12 metro lines.

Government commitment to Universal Accessibility

Mexico city’s head of Government, Clara Brugada, affirmed the city’s commitment to the court order, emphasizing that the initiative stems not only from legal obligation but also from a deep-seated conviction to promote inclusive mobility. Brugada Molina pledged that over the next two years,the entire metro infrastructure will be improved,from escalators and elevators to station entrances,ensuring “free and safe” transit for all individuals with disabilities.

“we have this year and next to advance as much as possible. We will guarantee electric stairs where are required and that all stations have elevators for people who need them,”

The Catalyst for Change: A Personal Account

The legal action that triggered this overhaul was initiated by Gilberto Álvarez in March 2023.Álvarez, who experiences motor disabilities, filed a complaint citing the metro’s inadequate facilities for people with disabilities.

“A car accident caused me a spinal cord injury and caused the disability. I cannot move half of the body. Practically, from that date the use of the use of the public transportation It is indeed vrey complicated. The Metro It is indeed actually inaccessible to us,”

Gilberto Álvarez, in an interview with Excélsior

Álvarez, a lawyer, frequently uses lines 1, 2, and 3 to navigate the city and has firsthand experience of the challenges faced by people with disabilities on the metro.

Comprehensive Upgrades and Monitoring

The planned improvements extend beyond just elevators and escalators. Brugada Molina highlighted the implementation of a permanent monitoring system to prevent malfunctions in escalators and ensure they are not improperly operated manually. Moreover, tactile paving will be installed across all stations to aid people with visual impairments.

The Broader Context: Accessibility in Public Transportation

This initiative aligns with a growing global emphasis on accessible public transportation. According to the World Health Organization, over 1 billion people, or 15% of the world’s population, experience some form of disability. Ensuring accessible public transport is crucial for promoting social inclusion and economic chance for this significant segment of the population. Cities like London and New York have already invested heavily in making their subway systems more accessible, serving as potential models for Mexico city.

Looking Ahead: A More Inclusive Metro

The Mexico City Metro serves as a vital artery for the city’s residents. With thes planned upgrades, the metro aims to become a truly inclusive transportation system, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities, can navigate the city with ease and dignity. The Metro is the heart of the mobility in the city, and must be accessible to all people, concluded the president.